Nitu Samra Named Noida International Airport Interim CEO

By: WE Staff | Monday, 27 April 2026

• Nitu Samra was named interim CEO after Christoph Schnellmann failed to get security clearance
• The move underscores strict Bureau of Civil Aviation Security rules for senior airport roles
• Focus now on compliance and smooth launch of Noida International Airport Ltd

Noida International Airport has selected Nitu Samra on an interim basis as its new Chief Executive Officer as it transitions into a critical phase in the construction of the new facility. Nitu comes after the departure of Christoph Schnellmann, the founding CEO, who had applied for and was denied his mandatory security clearance for senior management positions at airports in accordance with Indian aviation laws, according to India Today. Christoph has since accepted a board position with NIA.

Under the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security's regulations, international airports are required to receive security clearance prior to filling senior management positions. Security clearance was not received, creating a compliance gap and leading to the leadership change as the project approaches construction completion and an operational start-up.

The news highlights the sensitivity of regulations governing major infrastructure projects, particularly those in aviation that require security clearance before placement of any senior manager.

Nitu has been the Chief Financial Officer of Noida International Airport Ltd. since 2021. Given her previous involvement in the financial planning and operational structuring of the new airport, it is expected that Nitu will continue with the same internal executives who have been working closely with stakeholders and understand the common project dynamics during this sensitive transition time.

Nitu has more than 20 years of experience across finance, corporate management and infrastructure and has held positions at organizations such as Fidelity International, LeasePlan India and the India Mortgage Guarantee Corporation.

According to the report, Nitu's top priority as interim CEO of the airport is to ensure that on or before the airport's launch date all regulatory and compliance requirements are met. This will involve coordinating with aviation authorities, managing the approvals process and ensuring public and private stakeholders are aligned.

The development of Noida International Airport is taking place with participation by the Uttar Pradesh government and Zurich Airport International AG, creating a high level of coordination through different organizations.

The change in leadership comes as the airport moves from the construction phase to the operationally ready phase of the project and the emphasis on strict adherence to safety, regulatory and administrative protocols is imperative.

Once Noida International Airport is operational, it will help relieve congestion from Delhi's aviation system and will improve connectivity throughout the northern region of India.